Pilates Clinique body therapy

"... Since we are living in this modern age we must out of necessity devote more time and more thought to the matter of acquiring physical fitness."

Joseph Hubertus Pilates (1883-1967)

Body therapy

We work on specific problems or holistically for general health and well being.

Pilates

We run bespoke sessions targeting strength, flexibility, balance, and control, using over 500 exercises

Rehabiliation

We speicalise in the rehabilitation of existing injuries and/or chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

About us

Pilates Clinique is a Pilates studio offering Pilates and Massage Therapy in Kentish town near Camden.

The Pilates method of body conditioning produces fantastic results in improving muscle control, flexibility, co-ordination, balance, strength and tone. From our studio in Kentish Town, Camden we run one to one or group sessions tailored for any clients specific needs. Whether you’re at expert or beginner level we have a Pilates session to suit you. Our sessions follow the incredibly effective work of Joseph Pilates and will give your body and mind, balance, strength and tone.

Additionally from our studio we also offer Massage Therapy in Kentish town in Camden. Body therapy can also help the rehabilitation of injuries resulting from stress, strain and chronic conditions, as well as aiding keen sport enthusiasts and also those who are training for sporting events. Our massage therapy will help re-balance your body and decreases recovery time. Our aims are to prevent from injuries and rehabilitation of existing injuries or chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

Call us now to book a Pilates or massage therapy session in our Kentish town Clinique 0207 267 8086.

"If your spine is inflexibly stiff at 30, you are old. If it is completely flexible at 60 you are young."

Joseph Hubertus Pilates (1883-1967)

Pilates the manand the method

The Pilates Method developed by Joseph Hubertus Pilates (1883-1967) followed his exercise regime which he called "Contrology".

Before Joseph Pilates' death in 1967, he had developed more than 500 exercises for the various pieces of apparatus he invented.

It is fascinating to think that over a hundred years ago Joseph Pilates developed his system of body conditioning and it is so popular today. The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning does not aim to bulk a person’s musculature; it aims to strengthen and lengthen a person’s posture and musculature. With a centre of the body that is strong and flexible.

The Key Principles of the classical Pilates Method

Centering: is considered to be the main focus of the Pilates Method. The "centre" refers to the core of the body and is usually known as the "powerhouse".

Concentration: it is the mind that guides the body; hence focused concentration is necessary when carrying out Pilates exercises.

Control: an exercise is being done from the center with concentration, one must be in control of the movements performed.

Precision: in each exercise should be carried out. A common saying in the world of Pilates that illustrates this is, "It is not how many you do, but how you do it".

Breath: all exercises should be done with rhythmical breathing, for the purpose of obtaining optimal circulation of oxygenated blood to all tissue of the body.

Flow: refers to the graceful and flowing succession of one exercise to another during a Pilates session.

"I must be right. Never an aspirin. Never injured a day in my life. The whole country, the whole world, should be doing my exercises. They'd be happier."

Joseph Hubertus Pilates (1883-1967)

FAQ’s pilates

Pilates is suitable for all fitness levels, body types and ages. However, as with any new exercise routine we recommend that you get the approval of your doctor first. Pilates isn't just for the people who want to be fit and trim: it was also designed especially for people who need extra help for recovery.

Pilates workouts promote strength and balances muscles development as well as flexibility and increase range of motion for the joints. It also improves body alignment and enhances breathing and blood circulation. These things in turn lead to daily life improvements like better posture, efficient movement and for many, relief from pain associated with physical imbalance such as back pain.

Your first 6-10 Pilates sessions should be private ones. This will allow the instructors to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses and introduce you to the Pilates apparatus. These sessions will familiarise you with the movement, language and philosophy of Pilates. This will ensure that your workout is appropriate for your specific needs. After you have taken your private sessions, it will be up to you and your instructor to decide if you are ready and would like to move to semi-private sessions (group classes).

Anyone who commits to Pilates workouts will develop a trimmer, more compact appearance. There is no scientific evidence as yet to support the claim that Pilates helps to lose weight. However, many of our clients report that the progress they have made during their time with us, has inspired them to maintain a balanced diet and to increase their exercise level; inevitably they have lost weight.

The causes of back pain are very varied. We have had great success in the rehabilitation of clients who have suffered from back pain due to muscle imbalances, inefficient posture, post-operative and postnatal pain.

The speed of your progress will depend on how many times a week you are able to commit to sessions. For optimum results, we recommend 2 to 3 times a week. This can include private or semi-private sessions and mat/tower classes. Some of our clients have shown beneficial changes within 10 to 15 sessions. Consistency is the key to change.

You will need to consult your doctor before embarking on a program. Pilates is a suitable exercise method during pregnancy.Pilates exercises activates the core abdominal muscles and the pelvic floor muscles. Many of our clients benefited from Pilates sessions during and after pregnancy. They have found that the method has helped them to strengthen and tone the postural muscles, carry the foetus, deliver the baby and get back into shape after birth.

Supervised Pilates is often appropriate for senior fitness and is gaining popularity among senior citizens. Pilates exercises can be modified to meet the individual needs of all ages and levels of fitness. Some exercises in Pilates work on balance, flexibility, muscle strength and stamina. Joseph Pilates practiced his method into his eighties.

The mat classes consist of exercises performed on a mat with some movements performed with magic circles. Studio session consist of movements performed on special equipment, or apparatus, originally designed by Joseph Pilates. These include the Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Small and Large Barrel which are unique to Pilates.

1 to 1 (apparatus): 1 person with an instructor. Duet (apparatus): 2 people with one instructor. Group (apparatus): 1 - 5 people with one instructor. Mat/Tower (mat/apparatus): 2 - 6 people with one instructor.

FAQ’s massage

You should wear clothing that is comfortable for you to work out in. Try to avoid over-sized attire that would make it difficult for the instructor to observe your body during the session. All clients are required to wear socks. Avoid dangling jewellery for safety and comfort. For an oil based massage sessions you should undress to your own level of comfort most people prefer to keep their underwear on during a massage.

Communicate openly with the massage therapist, if the pressure is not right for you, as we all have different body types and require different forms of pressure. Keep in mind however that it's a myth that massage therapy has to hurt to be effective. Feel free to say if the room is too hot or too cold, we are here to relax you.

Most people feel very relaxed; after an initial period of feeling slowed down, (calmed, peaceful, tranquil).People often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage.

It depends on what you want from the massage. If you have a problem you would like to address, one or two treatment a week is beneficial to start. The effects of massage are cumulative, so your second massage builds on the improvements of your first, and so on. Beyond that a regular massage is effective for maintenance purposes .Many people enjoy massage because it is relaxing and pleasant, but also its many health benefits.

Studio session

Opening hours:

Monday to Friday: 8am to 8pmSaturday: 8am to 2pmSunday and Public holidays: closed

In our North London studio in Kentish Town we offer the following

Pilates session 1 to 1

This is a private session; you will use the mat and the Pilates apparatus. You will be given personal and detailed attention. The instructor will evaluate your specific needs; you will then progress according to your abilities. You will be continuously introduced to new exercises, movements and principles. You will work on specific body areas, body alignment or the rehabilitation of an existing injury.

Ideal for: Anyone.

Pilates session duet

Two participants closely supervised by one instructor using the mat and Pilates apparatus.
These sessions are ideal for two people who want to exercise together. Please book the appointment with a partner; we are unable to pair people up.

Ideal for: Anyone.

Pilates session group

Up to five people working with an instructor. In order to participate in these sessions you will have to complete up to six introductory sessions. Following these sessions you will be reviewed by your instructor in order to join the class. Your instructor will design a personal and tailored programme; this is for you to follow during the group sessions.

Ideal for: Those with basic foundation.

Pilates cardio tone

60 minutes of fun! Cardio-Tone is the most popular class at Pilates Clinique. It is a calorie burning cardio-fitness and power workout. We will incorporate the use of the reformer, tower, small apparatus and classical floor work in one session. Cardio Tone delivers the strength conditioning effects Pilates is known for, as well as a heart-rate boosting or cardiovascular workout.

Ideal for: Those with basic foundation.

Pilates session flow

Up to five people working with an instructor. In order to participate in these sessions you will need to have a good foundation. This one hour studio class is what Pilates is all about. Get deeper into your core, mind and spirits and hone your transition to create a fluid workout break between exercises. This session is being instructed by an instructor where all clients perform the same exercises at the same time on the apparatus.

Ideal for: Those with a good foundation.

Wunda Chair Workout

The Wunda Chair takes one step further forward by adding “Functional Resistance Kit” (elastic bands) to create a truly multipurpose exercise tool for a challenging 60minute workout. Focusing on total body strength especially core strength. Stability, mobility and strength are required for daily functional movements, such as standing, climbing, pushing and lifting. Exercises on the Chair are great for all athletes, such as skiers, runners, golfers and tennis players who are looking to increase their power.

Ideal for: Appropriate level

Pilates classical mat and tower work

Up to five people and one instructor exercising on the mat and tower following the Pilates exercise method. These sessions are designed to develop muscle strength, toned body, improve posture, flexibility, balance and control. Using the tower's springs, the bar and the feet straps, adds variety and demands greater body control.

Ideal for: Those with basic foundation.

Beyond the mat

Up to five experienced participants. This is an integrated system that combines mat work and equipment-based exercises. It is a challenging workout, which is rarely taught these days. This programme will help you to achieve a strong and lean physique. It is for anyone who seeks optimal fitness, a competitive edge and a good challenge.

Ideal for: Advanced level and Pilates Instructors.

Weekly development and training sessions for Pilates instructors

All certified instructors who are looking to increase their repertoire and improve the execution of exercises are welcome. By regular participation one will improve physical ability, be exposed to new challenging Pilates exercises and be taught in a friendly, non-competitive environment.

Reformer for teachers. This class will cover the full reformer repertoire, beginning with intermediate / advanced work and progressing to the rarely taught advanced reformer exercises. We highly recommend that you participate in the instructors "beyond the mat class" session in preparation for or in combination with this special reformer session.

Beyond the mat class. A fun yet challenging mat class with new, high level Pilates moves added to the existing repertoire. Exercises adapted from apparatus such as the wall unit, arm weights and the magic circle will also be incorporated.

"Patience and persistence are vital qualities in the ultimate successful accomplishment of any worthwhile endeavor."

Alvin Quek

Founder of Pilates Clinique, Certified Pilates Instructor

Alvin is an international Pilates instructor with a dance degree from Queensland University Australia. He is an experienced choreographer and performer, and has danced professionally with the Arts Fission Company of which he is a founding member.

Having been nominated for the Young Artists Award in 1998, Alvin went on to become Outstanding Instructor of the Year. A past lecturer at the LaSalle-SIA College of the Arts, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts and consultant to the Civil Service Dance Group, he is also the Founding Director of the Wheel Dance Repertory, a physically handicapped performing group.

Spanning of over 30 yrs of experienced in body movement, Alvin is highly experienced in Pilates mat work and the use of studio equipment. He works closely with recognised medical practitioners, physiotherapists and orthopaedic surgeons. Before setting up this studio he was a co-founder/director of a Pilates studio which offers Pilates and physiotherapy. Alvin now spends his time teaching at PilatesClinique and is the principal trainer and external examiner for other leading London Pilates schools.

Todd Taylor

Todd, recently moved to London from America, where he had been teaching Pilates in San Francisco since 2007. His comprehensive Pilates course training was with BASI and the Ron Fletcher Program of study.

Todd has expertise in soft tissue release using the A.R.T. (Active Release Techniques) methodology. Active Release Techniques treatments address problems in individual tissues as well as in between tissues. One tissue or structure can affect another structure biomechanically and it can also affect the other structure directly.

His background in movement includes ongoing experience as a Mysore Ashtanga practitioner and teacher. In addition to two trips to Mysore India to study with Sharath Jois, Todd practiced and taught yoga extensively under the guidance of Magnolia Zuniga, one of only 17 certified female Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga teachers in the world certified by KPJAYI in India.

Todd has also completed a month long teacher’s intensive with Richard Freeman in Boulder Colorado. He has been fortunate to have studied with some of the senior Ashtanga teachers in the West.

He developed this combined body of work through his own personal imbalance and rehabilitation. Todd’s own healing, the guidance of many world class movement teachers, and hard work have helped cultivate his ability to give to others the gifts that have helped him remove physical blockages and approach his body’s ability to thrive in balance.

Suz Ceballos

Pilates instructor, NVQ level 3

Suz is originally from Mexico. She qualified in Pilates mat and studio equipment at SCU (Sport City University) Mexico June 2005. A dance student for more than 20 years and danced professionally for 8 years.

She moved to London and with further education at Pilates International in London 2010 and gained a qualification of NVQ3 this gives her a vast knowledge of teaching Pilates. With her professional training as a Pilates instructor and body-posture science, health and exercise, allow her to broaden her technique and apply different concepts within Pilates.

She also teaches Salsa classes, practices Tai Chi for the past 6 years and also taught white water kayaking for 14years.

Laura Souza

Holistic massage Therapist

Laura is fully qualified as a Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapist and member of CSTA - The Craniosacral Therapy Association and CTHA - Complementary Therapists Association.

I arrived in the UK in 1999 from Brazil, where I had been working as a Public Revelations Executive. I made the decision to study and become qualified as a Holistic Therapist, because I believe that Holistic Therapies benefit and improve the quality of all areas of our lives.

As I developed my skills, I explored many aspects of Holistic Therapy such as Swedish massage, Indian head massage, ear candling, Reiki, reflexology and Spiritual healing.

Michael Anthony

Studio Manager

Originally from Nottingham, Michael joined the NHS, working as a nurse in psychiatric wards. After working for 23 years, he was able to take early retirement and joined Alvin working at his Pilates Studio in 2008.

Before working for the NHS, he worked in various Photographic Studios for over a fifteen year period, studying different forms of photography, from advertising, architectural and editorial magazine shoots.

He studied for three years with the European School of Shiatsu a combination of acupressure and Japanese massage and lately studied Seated Chair massage, an extension of Shiatsu using the meridian lines of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Safiah Durrah

Pilates Instructor NVQ Level 3

Safiah grew up in Kuala Lumpur dancing on national televisions, festivals and competing in international dance events, and in Australia. After hanging up her dancing shoes she changed her career path and moved to England.

Safiah was encouraged by the instructors to take the studio’s certification programme, whilst undergoing ankle rehabilitation at Pilates International Ltd. She trained part time for three years alongside her university course, giving her the opportunity to train and teach many clients under the supervision of several highly experienced teachers including Alvin Quek. In 2010, she was certified as an NVQ Level 3 Equipment and Mat Pilates Instructor.

When she was a teenager she sprained her ankle whilst practising pirouettes barefoot in her parents' living room. It wasn't until she was in full time professional dance training in Australia that she got her injury looked at by a medical professional. By that time, her ankle injury had become chronic and she was sent home to get it treated. She is a strong believer that the human body is highly capable of healing naturally - physically and psychologically. Hence her study and practice in Pilates.

Sibylla Meienberg

Sibylla grew up exploring a variety of sports as part of her education in her native Switzerland, but was primarily dedicated to intense figure skating training and was competing at national level.

She then decided to leave the full-time skating training behind and move to London to pursue an acting career. As part of her training at drama school she was first introduced to Pilates and discovered its great benefits. She later trained at Sampson Pilates to also become a Pilates Instructor for all studio equipment and mat work and has been teaching in various reputable establishments across London for the past eleven years.

Sibylla has been working with clients of all ages and abilities. She particularly enjoys when after a bit of training, clients find themselves able to perform exercises they never dreamed of being able to do and generally feel the benefits of Pilates in their new body awareness. Sibylla is continually training to expand her knowledge and to keep fit and healthy herself.

Mary Boyarski

Pilates Instructor

Mary came to the UK in 1994 to study the Alexander Technique and qualify as an AT teacher. A former dancer, runner, and fitness instructor, she brings her experience and knowledge from these varied disciplines to her teaching. She received her Pilates mat qualification in August 2003 from Pilates Institute and her studio qualification in 2008 from Alvin Quek at Pilates Clinic.

She has also completed courses through Polestar Pilates covering osteoporosis, pre- and post-natal pilates, lower limb pathologies, and scoliosis. She has 8 ½ years’ experience teaching group mat classes at David Lloyd’s in Finchley, and another 8 ½ years working in a private equipment studio in Golders Green giving one-to-one lessons, duets and small reformer classes.

She believes her strengths as a teacher include the ability to communicate clearly, to use touch to illustrate and enhance movement, to improvise according to a student’s needs, and to put students at ease. She has two grown daughters and two grandchildren.

"Not only is health a normal condition, but it is our duty not only to attain it but to maintain it."

Joseph Hubertus Pilates (1883-1967)

Testimonials

Dr S Ponsford

I was introduced to Alvin and Pilates 4 years ago when I had knee injury but had to continue training for the Grand Canyon hike. Alvin is a master. His class is disciplined but fun. While his teaching is adhered to the classical Pilates, the method of delivery is dynamic and flexible, taking into account the client's injuries and abilities. One usually leaves the class feeling of “complete coordination between body, mind and spirit”.

Vicki Lee

Nutritional Therapist

Alvin was fantastic at helping me to get back into shape following the birth of my second child over 8 years ago. I have continued with weekly one-to-one Pilates sessions and regular group classes as I see vast improvements in my muscle tone, flexibility and posture. I cannot imagine not doing Pilates with Alvin. What is unique about Alvin is his dedication to getting the best out of his clients and helping them achieve their goals. He constantly challenges me to try new things and to advance through the different Pilates levels. Alvin is a great teacher who understands my specific, and ever changing, needs. Over the years I have been able to rely on him to combine his knowledge of physiology with Pilates in order to support me through injuries sustained through other sports. His dedication to healing and strengthening me means that he is the first person I go to for any muscular aches & pains.

Valerie Barber

Public Relations Consultant

I have been having private sessions with Alvin for ten years. He is an excellent teacher and the classes are always enjoyable - but more importantly, Alvin has an incredible eye for detail. He can tell immediately you walk into the studio whether you have any problems. I am a keen tennis player and a few months ago I had a serious knee injury. I was told that it would take at least six months before I could play tennis again. Thanks to Alvin's care and attention, the rehab has been quite amazing and far quicker than anticipated. I was able to play again after three months, and happily my knee is in very good shape and standing up to playing a lot of tennis again. This is greatly thanks to Alvin's understanding of the muscles.. I strongly recommend Alvin, especially for rehab. He is a marvel!

J.H

Retired

I started Pilates with Alvin 18 months ago when my children gave me a present of some introductory Pilates lessons. They have been going to Alvin and his team of instructors for some years and wanted me to also feel the benefit. It turned out to be the perfect present. I am a 'senior citizen' and have had a hip replacement. Although active, I hadn't done any regular exercise for some time. I am now stronger and more flexible than I've been for years. Alvin has a great understanding of the body and my particular needs. He works me hard while still making the sessions enjoyable and varied. I am hooked.

Nicole Langlois and Stephen Brown

Nicole and I have been learning Pilates with Alvin for 5 years and we cannot recommend him highly enough. Alvin’s background as a professional modern dancer, coupled with his patience and dry sense of humour, make him the perfect Pilates teacher. His classes are always varied and sufficiently stretching (both literally and figuratively) to leave you with a sense of achievement at the end. Alvin’s knowledge of the full spectrum of Pilates exercises is such that, whenever we feel we have mastered something, he immediately take us on to the next level.

Beverley McMaster –Leadership Coach

I have known Alvin since 2004.I came to him after experiencing on going lower back pain for sometime. I 'd had surgery years previously and wasn't as strong generally as I needed to be.

I have continued working with Alvin to this day and Pilates has become my regular weekly practice. We have worked through two pregnancies, all sorts of self induced stresses and strains from other activities and over time we have succeeded in building up a level of all round strength and capability. My body is probably stronger and more flexible now than it has ever been, certainly in my adult life.

Alvin has an ability to really understand the alignment and foibles of each client's body. Each one is different and he can, with minute precision ascertain the mm adjustment that is needed or the exact point of tension that needs to be released. You can expect to work hard in the classes but never beyond your capability and always with a willingness and care to make an adjustment or find an alternative if something is too challenging.

For clients who want expert individual attention, who want the confidence that their own particular concerns will be heard, classes at the Pilates Clinique in whatever format will without doubt provide this.

Sarah Bellman

I have been a client of Alvin Quek and the Pilates clinic for over 7years. I attend 2 group sessions a week and have regular 1-2-1's with Alvin and his colleagues (Mariah). They are highly professional and understanding and the programmes are specifically tailored to my needs, ability and current health issues and updated regularly.

I and other family members also have regular sports massage sessions at the clinic.

The combination of Pilates and massages have without doubt greatly enhanced and speeded up my recovery following recent major mid foot fusion surgery.

Quite simply I love it and would highly recommend everyone to try Pilates.

"A few well-designed movements, properly performed in a balanced sequence, are worth hours of doing sloppy callisthenics or forced contortion."

Joseph Hubertus Pilates (1883-1967)

Price list

Pilates classes

Instructor

Alvin

Private 1-2-1

£65.00

£75.00

Group

£34.00

£34.00

Duet

£44.00

£50.00

Cardio-tone / Flow / Chair

£34.00

£34.00

Re-assessment (2 sessions)

£110.00

£130.00

6 introductory lessons

£342.00

Block courses

10 sessions

20 sessions

Private

£600.00

£1190.00

Group

£300.00

£580.00

Duet

£400.00

£790.00

Cardio-tone / Flow / Chair

£300.00

£580.00

Alvin (Director)

10 sessions

20 sessions

Private

£700.00

£1380.00

Duet

£440.00

£860.00

Teacher training programme

Per session

Reformer for teachers 90 mins

£50.00

Body therapy

Each session

Sports massage 60 mins

£55.00

Sports massage 45 mins

£45.00

Sports massage 30 mins

£30.00

Cancellations are charged at the full rate unless 24 hours notice is given. All Monday cancellations should be made before 1pm the previous Saturday.